Sash Windows Repair and Replacement

Older sash windows suffer from a range of issues, including draughts rattles, and inadequate insulation. With a little attention they can be restored to a high level of performance.

First, knock off the seal of paint from the window stop with the knife of a utility. Remove the staff bead, then pull out the upper sash, and take out any chains or cords. Keep the hardware in a container with a label.

Sealing

Sash windows can look stunning in old buildings but they require regular maintenance and could be susceptible to issues like cracked putty, wet rot and drafts. Sealing, replacement or repair of the sash window is an effective way to reduce these problems and increase energy efficiency.

Draughts are mainly caused by gaps between the sash and frame. They can also lead to noise and rattling, which can reduce soundproofing. Sealing beads, special products, and secondary double glazing window repairs may be used to limit the air leakage in a Sash.

A common issue is a gap that exists between the top of the sash and the jamb frame or between the bottom of sash and the sill. This can result in the leaking of moisture the wood, rotting and the growth of mould. Seal the gaps with silicone, polyurethane or foam sealant.

Installing a new sash runner, or spring bronze could be necessary when a gap is preventing the windows from closing and opening effortlessly. These bronze strips are tied or stapled to the sash's lower edges to stop the rattling of the sides. They can be purchased at DIY stores. Tubular weatherstripping also can be used, however it is prone to tear and can alter the appearance of your window.

It is important to take measurements of the entire window opening prior to installing a an alternative sash runner. It is recommended to measure from the top of the sash to the horizontal line of the rails that meet, and from the bottom of the sash to the sill. These measurements can be transferred to new runners that will ensure the best fit and function of the window.

In older structures the gap between the frame and sash is typically greater around the leading edge. It is possible to draught-proof it using a strip of V-strip that is self-adhesive. However it is essential to take this into consideration when cutting and measuring material.

The strip should be cut at the height of the sash with an inch more on each side to allow for movement. It should be cut to a square shape and then positioned in a way that the ends are aligned to the angle of the window sill. It is also crucial to use stainless steel screws, since brass can rust and the best quality silicone or polyurethane adhesive.

Refurbishment

The sash is an attractive historic feature in many homes. They are beautiful, but they can be susceptible to problems. Rattling, draughts, sticking or leaking are typical issues. Also, rotting frames, meeting rails, broken glazing bars, or damaged weights could cause a lot of trouble. When these issues arise, it's time to consider an sash repair or replacement.

Refurbishment can be more expensive than replacing the sash, however, it can bring back the appearance and function to the same standard in its original condition. Refurbishment involves re-lining both the meeting rail and the sash box with traditional putty, and then repairing any damage caused by decay. It also involves painting the frame with timber and reglazing with traditional glass. A full refurbishment can also include adding draught proofing, re-attaching the sash furniture/ironmongery and replacing the parting bead (the dividing strip between the two panes of glass). It's also recommended to install brush pile weather strip to prevent rattling.

If the need for a new sash arises it can be constructed from like-for-like designs to match the frame that was previously used and keep your property's heritage style. This is especially important for listed properties where any changes made to the windows will require planning permission.

Before putting the new window on before installing it, make sure you check the metal tabs against those on the sash that was previously used (see below). If these are different shapes the new sash will not fit correctly into the slots of the window frame.

It is crucial to determine whether to replace or repair a damaged window, as each option will require a different degree and amount of expertise. If a large part of the glass in a sash is missing replacing it would be the better alternative. But when the glass is damaged in a small area or a sill is decaying, a repair may be the better option.

Replacement

Many homeowners wish to keep their old sash window in good condition, however deterioration will eventually cause problems like draughts or rattles. Broken glass is also a possibility to occur. These issues often point to an inevitable replacement as the only sensible solution. There are other ways to improve sash window performance other than replacing them. They can be improved by the installation of secondary glazing and draught-proofing.

Take note of the severity of the issue. It may not be necessary or appropriate to replace a window. For example, a foggy glass issue usually occurs within the sash and can usually be solved without ripping out the whole frame. A leaky seal can be fixed by making a few minor adjustments instead of a costly full-frame tear-out and replacement.

Sash windows are surprisingly complex in design and feature lots of moving parts. This is why it can be tricky to solve common issues like sash cords that are snapped or broken panes. Solving these issues usually requires dismantling the window frame, which isn't something that the majority of homeowners would like to tackle on their own. Many homeowners choose to engage a professional for these reasons.

A professional can help restore windows made of sash to their original splendor, or even bring them up to modern energy standards. This may include reconditioning the frames and fitting secondary glass to block heat from escaping through the local window repair. It is also possible to add a brush pile strip, to stop rattling and reduce drafts.

To begin the repair, take off the window stops. (The moldings are in front of the lower glass). Next, loosen the staff bead, then take off the lower sash. Remove the chains and cords from both sides. Finally remove the sashweights from the bottom cavity of the weight. Keep the hardware in a secure position. Soften any old filler, hardened putty, or filler with a heat gun and scrape it off with the help of a putty knife. Reassemble the window. Reattach the hardware. Lubricate the pulleys using Teflon or silicone spray. Reinstall the parting bead and reinstall upper sash.

Repair

The decision to repair or replace a sash window is a crucial one for the homeowner. Modern replacements offer many advantages, but the original features in an older house can add character and value. They are also cheaper to repair instead of replacing. Maintaining them in good shape can also save energy costs. Sash windows are vulnerable to rattles, drafts, and condensation, and these problems can result in increased energy bills and damage to the frame and the sash.

Sash windows are notoriously difficult to close and open as the traditional sliding mechanism can be displaced from its track, or even draughty. Repairing a sash window involves extensive dismantling of the window frame, so it's best left to the professionals. With the right tools and experience it's possible for you to repair the old sash window yourself. Adam shows Jess the basics:

Remove any security fittings that are behind the lower window sash. Then, remove the staff bead. Then, remove the bottom sash. Then, take the cords or chains on both sides, and tie the ends to stop them from being pulled back into the frame by the weights attached to them. It's now time to remove the upper sash. Unscrew the sash stoppers (a thin vertical strip of wood that holds the sash) and remove any paint-encrusted hardware. The sash should be pulled back to reveal the weight. It is a heavy iron or lead cylinder, which is tucked away inside a cavity and supported by a cord. To prevent the sash falling into the void, pierce it using a nail, and then sacrifice the weight.

After the sashes have been removed Clean the jamb and meet rails. remove the glazing bars and sash cords, and scrape off any paint off the sash stops with the help of a utility knife. Reattach the stops when the sashes have been put back in place. Use nails that are not large enough to damage the balancing weight.

To reassemble the sash place the top sash on its track first, and then the lower sash. Make sure that the sash stops and the frame are aligned properly. If needed, reconnect any parting beads. Reattach the sash chains or Sash windows repair cords and attach the sash pulleys.